India’s growth story exemplifies the strength of its diverse population. As the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India posted a remarkable 8.4% growth rate in FY24, despite global challenges. Further, India will be driving 20% of the world’s economic growth in the next decade. Sustaining this growth demands an approach that is inclusive and empowers youth from all sections of society by providing equitable access to opportunities and resources. Minority communities, constituting nearly 19% of the population, represent an essential segment of India’s growth story. This group is uniquely placed due to their aspirations shaped by their diverse socio-economic contexts. Addressing their needs is vital for ensuring equitable growth, further strengthening the nation’s social fabric and economic dynamism.

The country’s six notified religious minorities — Buddhists, Christians, Jains, Muslims, Parsis and Sikhs — have been the cornerstone of all initiatives and efforts undertaken by the ministry of minority affairs (MoMA). With an umbrella of skills and education schemes, the ministry has been empowering minority groups to build an inclusive foundation for Viksit Bharat.

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